Can Dogs Eat Cherries?
It's not recommended. The flesh isn't toxic, but the pit, stem and leaves contain compounds that release cyanide, and the pits can cause a blockage. It's almost impossible for a dog to eat cherries without swallowing the pit.
Why it's dangerous
The pits, stems and leaves of the cherry tree contain cyanogenic glycosides (such as amygdalin) that release cyanide when they're broken and chewed. Cyanide stops cells from using oxygen. A single cherry swallowed whole rarely releases enough, but dogs that eat lots of them under the tree or chew the pits can be poisoned.
The other problem is mechanical: the pits are hard and small, and in small dogs, or when many are swallowed, they can cause an intestinal blockage. Since separating the flesh from every cherry is a lot of work for very little benefit, our advice is not to give them. Maraschino cherries, candied cherries and cherries soaked in liquor add sugar and alcohol.
Is any amount safe?
There's no recommended amount. One whole cherry swallowed by accident by a large dog doesn't usually cause problems, but the risk from the pits isn't worth it: there are equally tempting fruits with no pit, like blueberries or strawberries.
Risks
- Cyanogenic compounds in the pit, stem and leaves
- Intestinal blockage from the pits
- Cherry trees in the yard: leaves and fallen fruit
- Cherries in liquor, maraschino or candied cherries
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my dog eats a cherry?
If your dog swallowed one or two whole cherries, most likely nothing will happen: a whole pit releases almost no cyanide and usually passes in the stool. Watch for a few days for vomiting, not eating or not pooping. If your dog is small, ate a lot or chewed the pits, call your vet.
Can my dog eat pitted cherries?
The flesh isn't toxic, so a couple of pitted cherries with no stems won't hurt. The problem is how easily a pit or stem slips through, and cherries don't offer anything special. If you want a red fruit as a treat, strawberries and blueberries are more practical.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.